Villagers on Principe, the ‘African Galapagos’, to be paid for protecting the ecosystem

The Guardian - World NewsEN 3 min read 100% complete by Kevin RushbyMarch 10, 2026 at 05:13 PM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

On the island of Príncipe, often called the "African Galapagos" due to its unique biodiversity, villagers are now being paid to protect the ecosystem. The Faya Foundation's project, funded by Mark Shuttleworth, provides quarterly dividends to residents who adhere to an environmental protection code; over 60% of the adult population, nearly 3,000 people, have joined. The first payment of €816 has been distributed, a significant amount for the island. Príncipe's unique environment, with species found nowhere else, has been threatened by deforestation and unsustainable practices following the decline of the cacao plantation economy after its independence in 1975. The initiative aims to reward residents for preserving the island's precious environment, offering an alternative to environmentally damaging development paths.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Angola 40% Cabo Verde 40% Portuguese ×250% São Tomé 50% Felipe Nascimento 60% Mark Shuttleworth ×270% Faya Foundation 70% Kimilson Lima ×270% Príncipe ×790%

Keywords

principe 100% ecosystem protection 90% environmental conservation 80% african galapagos 70% sustainable development 70% faya foundation 60% financial incentives 60% mark shuttleworth 60% biodiversity 50% community development 50%